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Creamy Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

Recipes Walay
If you love tacos and pasta, this Creamy Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe is perfect for you. It is rich, creamy, cheesy, and full of bold taco flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces medium pasta shells
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 can 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup corn kernels
  • ½ cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro chopped
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Beef

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for three minutes. Stir in garlic for one minute. Add ground beef and cook until brown. Drain extra grease if needed before moving forward.

Add the Seasonings

  • Sprinkle taco seasoning and smoked paprika over the beef. Stir well until every piece is coated. Cook for one minute. This simple step helps the spices become richer and more flavorful before adding the liquids.

Add the Liquid Ingredients

  • Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and milk. Stir everything together until mixed well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring often so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Cook the Pasta

  • Add the pasta shells directly into the skillet. Stir well. Cover with a lid. Cook for about 12 minutes. Stir every few minutes so the pasta cooks evenly and stays tender.

Make the Sauce Creamy

  • Lower the heat. Add the softened cream cheese. Stir until completely melted. Add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese slowly. Stir gently until the sauce becomes creamy, smooth, and rich without any lumps.

Finish the Dish

  • Mix in the corn and black beans. Cook for two more minutes until heated through. Taste the pasta. Add salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey instead of beef.
  • Add cooked chicken for another tasty version.
  • Stir in chopped bell peppers.
  • Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
  • Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
  • Top with crushed tortilla chips.
  • Garnish with diced avocado.
  • Add sour cream before serving.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Try ground sausage for richer flavor.
Keyword Creamy Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe